As everyone gathered in their spots for a big family photo, Marcus was holding little Albert, playing with him, blowing raspberries on his belly, making him squirm with laughter. If there was one thing about Marcus, it was that he was an exemplary father. He played with his kids without caring what
While everyone was fixing their hair, adjusting their outfits, and making sure everything was in place, the newlyweds stood patiently, wrapped in each other’s arms, smiling. Alden couldn’t stop hugging, kissing, and gazing at the woman who was now officially his wife before God.“Mrs. Palmer…”“Yes,
“And?” Peter asked, giving his full attention to his son.“And I think it’s time to go our separate ways. Please don’t take it the wrong way, but I think it’s time we give ourselves that opportunity.”“Why are you nervous?” Peter asked calmly.“Well… It’s just that we’re a close family. But now you
Finally, the whole family took their places, and the photo was taken. Everyone smiled for five seconds until the flash went off.Amid applause and hugs, the families gathered there began making their way to the reception area.Valerie, smiling, walked hand in hand with her husband, each carrying the
Meanwhile, the babies had worn themselves out, and a couple of nannies were taking care of what had basically become a mini daycare. When Marcus went to check on his twins, he realized just how monumental a task it was—one he had no desire to take on again.For a moment, he watched the little angels
As soon as the two fathers-in-law stepped out, all eyes turned to them. Almost everyone knew that, once upon a time, Marcus had nearly wanted to kill Peter. So seeing them walk out together, smiling and joking, caused quite a stir among the guests."What? Did something happen?" Marcus asked when he
Little by little, night fell over everyone gathered there. It was time for the speeches before opening the dance floor with the first waltz.Organizing this part had been tricky—after all, Serenity had three fathers, and making that work wasn’t easy. Especially when Marcus and Maximus kept throwing
After the three men had finally spoken, the microphone was passed to the mothers. The first to speak was Katherine, as she was closest.“Alden & Serenity, I’m so happy to be here today, to witness my son as he truly begins his life. My son, you are strong and wise, and I know you will fulfill your r
Valerie approached, one last time, one of the most important women in her life in Valeria.Emma Fiore—the woman who had taken her in almost like a daughter. While they had grown close during the three years Valerie was married to Maximus, their bond went far beyond that. They were family.Emma had c
After that hug, Valerie walked over to Laura, Serenity's sister, with whom she'd developed a bit of a bond."Laura and beautiful Adele—I wish you both all the success in the world… You must finish your studies and use your degree. You're living proof that it's possible—and that's exactly what your l
The day had finally come—the Bartz family and the newly formed Palmer-Bartz family were leaving for Hesperia.Without meaning to, the three families found themselves gathered once again at the airport.Marcus was saying goodbye to Peter, who, due to his memory loss, only held onto the memories of th
While Valerie packed up their things for the move back to Hesperia, Peter was driving with Celeste and their little girls toward Willowcombe.He was taking her to see how the renovations on the house—where they'd soon be living—were coming along.Celeste was in the back seat with the girls, tending
Valerie was packing clothes into the suitcases, though she kept drifting off, thinking about the reason they'd come here in the first place.At first, everything had seemed simple—quick even. Within a few months, they'd be back in Hesperia. But it had already been over a year.Things hadn't gone as
After Maximus said goodbye to Pierre, he went back into the mansion and headed straight to his son's room. Paul was lying on his bed, facing away from the door."Paul, can I come in?" Maximus asked gently."You're already in, Dad… Are you here to scold me for something that happened years ago?" Paul
"That's right. I'd like to speak with him alone, if you don't mind, Mr. Evans.""I think you're misunderstanding something. Letting you into my home doesn't mean you get to decide whether I'm in the conversation or not. Still, I'm trying to be reasonable—and if Paul wants to speak with you alone, on
Not too thrilled about it, Paul left his room and headed toward the garden, where a man was already waiting for him—one who didn't look his age. And to be honest, the resemblance between young Paul and the man was unmistakable.As soon as he heard footsteps approaching, the man—already sipping a cup
Time had flown by. The Bartzes were about to leave, and with them, Serenity and Alden. In just a week, everything would change again. It was clear that once the Bartzes returned to Hesperia, the families in Valentia would start making moves too. As everyone already knew, Theodore would stay in Flor